Best West Virginia Grants for Nonprofits

The ILSG Student Research Fund, established by the Institute on Lake Superior Geology, aims to support student research in the Lake Superior region with annual awards totaling US$1,000. This initiative encourages the presentation of research findings at ILSG meetings, fostering academic growth and collaboration. The fund originated from a US$10,000 contribution by the Board of Directors in 2005, with ongoing financial support from annual meeting proceeds, ensuring its sustainability for future student researchers.

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation is inviting applications for the 2025-26 Allison Summers Pediatric Pilot Grant. This $10,000 grant aims to support mid-career optometrists in conducting pilot research that fosters new collaborations and innovative projects in pediatric optometry. Eligible candidates must be Fellows of the Academy and demonstrate a commitment to advancing pediatric research. The deadline for submitting the Letter of Intent is August 4, 2025.

The AABE National & Regional Scholarship, awarded by the American Association of Blacks in Energy, supports students pursuing careers in the energy sector. Annually, over $350,000 is distributed through multiple scholarships, including six regional awards of $3,000 and one national award of $5,000, renewable for up to four years. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate commitment to energy-related fields, promoting diversity and equity in education.

The Local Filmmaker Fund by the People's Media Fund supports filmmakers in Greater Philadelphia, enhancing their skills and film projects through a 12-month cohort program. This initiative prioritizes under-resourced filmmakers committed to social justice, offering funding up to $400,000. Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old, live in designated areas, and either direct their film or secure fiscal sponsorship. The program fosters community storytelling and aims to amplify diverse voices in media.

The John C. Lasko Foundation Trust Grant supports the construction of worship spaces across the nation, requiring churches to fund at least 50% of the project costs. Established by John C. Lasko, the foundation aims to build enduring churches that adhere to its mission. Grants are specifically for sanctuary construction, and applicants must own the land designated for the church. Notably, funds are not available for debt repayment or non-sanctuary areas.

The Kenneth Rainin Foundation seeks to promote innovative research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) by encouraging diverse perspectives from early career investigators and those underrepresented in science. The Innovator Awards do not require preliminary data and are evaluated based on the potential for innovation and scientific merit. Eligible researchers must hold advanced degrees and can apply for funding through their home institutions, fostering groundbreaking ideas that can transform IBD treatment and prevention.

The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) and the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) are seeking innovative research applications for non-invasive imaging technologies to study the human olfactory system. This initiative emphasizes the need for advanced multimodal imaging techniques to enhance diagnostic capabilities for olfactory disorders, addressing challenges posed by the system's unique anatomical features. Collaboration among experts is encouraged to foster impactful research developments.

The HEAL Initiative aims to address the complex interplay between chronic pain and opioid use disorder (OUD), affecting 40-60% of OUD patients. Through the IMPOWR initiative, this funding opportunity seeks to develop integrated care strategies that enhance treatment delivery at health systems levels. By identifying effective interventions and collaborative care models, the initiative strives to improve patient outcomes in managing both chronic pain and OUD, while emphasizing the roles of various healthcare professionals in this integrated approach.

The Larry H. & Gail Miller Family Foundation offers General Operating Grants aimed at 501(c)(3) nonprofits that serve the west side of Salt Lake City. Grants of up to $10,000, with an average of $5,000, support initiatives in health, shelter, education, economic self-reliance, and cultural enrichment. Applications are reviewed monthly. Organizations must be registered as nonprofits and align with the Foundation's focus areas to be eligible for funding.

The Arthur and Hazel Auer Scholarship Fund, established by Hazel Auer's will, provides financial support to two East Noble seniors each year as they prepare for 4-year bachelor's programs at accredited colleges. Each recipient receives about $500 per semester for the first two years, totaling $2,000. This fund is managed by the Community Foundation of Noble County, which aims to enhance the quality of life in the region through philanthropic efforts.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) invites proposals for the Bats for the Future Fund RFP to combat white-nose syndrome (WNS) affecting bat populations in North America. This initiative seeks to advance treatments, implement management strategies, and support research that enhances bat survival and recovery. A match of 50% of the grant amount is preferred, aimed at fostering innovative conservation efforts and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the future of affected bat species.

The PEN/Robert W. Bingham Prize for Debut Short Story Collection recognizes an outstanding debut collection of short stories by a talented fiction writer. Awarded by PEN America, this prize highlights the literary achievements of new voices in fiction and offers a $25,000 cash prize to support the winner's future work. Established in memory of Robert W. Bingham, it honors his commitment to nurturing young writers and their contributions to literature.

The Katy Daley Broadcast Media & Sound Engineering Scholarship, funded by the IBMA Foundation, supports individuals pursuing studies in broadcasting or sound engineering with a bluegrass music focus. Annually, $2,000 scholarships are available to current IBMA members, including adults seeking continuing education. Eligible fields include radio, television, digital media, and sound engineering. The application deadline is June 1 for fall semester scholarships, promoting professional involvement in the bluegrass music industry.

The J. D. Crowe Banjo Scholarship, established by the IBMA Foundation, honors the legacy of renowned bluegrass musician J. D. Crowe. Funded by a generous $20,000 donation from Arthur Hancock III, this scholarship aims to support aspiring banjo players pursuing their education at the collegiate level. Eligible candidates must showcase high performance skills on the banjo and demonstrate a commitment to the bluegrass music industry, ensuring Crowe's influence continues for future generations.

Our Story

The IBMA Foundation was created by the International Bluegrass Music Association in 2007 with a bequest from the Richard Barnhart estate. Mr. Barnhart was a musician from northern Virginia who loved bluegrass and wanted to support educational programs for children. Since the beginning, our goal has been to support bluegrass-music-related educational, literary, artistic and historic preservation activities.

In our early years we produced Discover Bluegrass, an educational video that has been used in thousands of classrooms and libraries around the world. We have hosted dozens of teacher workshops and artist trainings. We created a bluegrass lesson plan competition and provided a network for leaders of after-school bluegrass programs.

Our project grants, which now total $25,000 a year, support bluegrass-related initiatives throughout the world. We also fund Bluegrass in the Schools Mini-grants ($7,000/year) which help schools to hire bluegrass bands for school programs. The Rosenberg Bluegrass Scholar Award recognizes excellence in academic research. Six college scholarships are granted for students working in various areas of the bluegrass music industry. The Arnold Shultz Fund supports increased participation of people of color in bluegrass music with grants that total $30,000/ year. Fletcher Bright Memorial Grants for Young Musicians (age 18 and younger) help young people go to bluegrass music camps and workshops, take lessons, and purchase educational materials.

IBMA  Foundation Project Grants

The IBMA Foundation awards project grants each year, usually in amounts between $1,000 and $2,500. The deadline to apply is December 2, 2024. Projects must align with the Foundation’s mission in one of the following areas

• Arts & culture
• Education
• Literary or academic programs
• History preservation

The IBMA Bluegrass College Scholarship offers a financial award ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 for students pursuing bluegrass music or related studies at the college level. Established by the IBMA Foundation, this scholarship aims to support future leaders in the bluegrass music industry. Applicants must submit their application by June 1 for a fall semester scholarship. This initiative highlights the foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities within bluegrass music.

The Gloria Belle Memorial Scholarship, established by the IBMA Foundation, honors pioneering bluegrass musician Gloria Bernadette Flickinger. This $1,000 annual scholarship supports students engaged in the bluegrass music community, either as performers or in supportive roles. With over $25,000 raised since June 2024, the scholarship aims to expand funding to $2,000 annually by 2025, promoting education and participation in bluegrass music.

Our Story

The IBMA Foundation was created by the International Bluegrass Music Association in 2007 with a bequest from the Richard Barnhart estate. Mr. Barnhart was a musician from northern Virginia who loved bluegrass and wanted to support educational programs for children. Since the beginning, our goal has been to support bluegrass-music-related educational, literary, artistic and historic preservation activities.

In our early years we produced Discover Bluegrass, an educational video that has been used in thousands of classrooms and libraries around the world. We have hosted dozens of teacher workshops and artist trainings. We created a bluegrass lesson plan competition and provided a network for leaders of after-school bluegrass programs.

Our project grants, which now total $25,000 a year, support bluegrass-related initiatives throughout the world. We also fund Bluegrass in the Schools Mini-grants ($7,000/year) which help schools to hire bluegrass bands for school programs. The Rosenberg Bluegrass Scholar Award recognizes excellence in academic research. Six college scholarships are granted for students working in various areas of the bluegrass music industry. The Arnold Shultz Fund supports increased participation of people of color in bluegrass music with grants that total $30,000/ year. Fletcher Bright Memorial Grants for Young Musicians (age 18 and younger) help young people go to bluegrass music camps and workshops, take lessons, and purchase educational materials.

Fletcher Bright Memorial Grant for Young Musicians

The IBMA Foundation is proud to host the Fletcher Bright Memorial Grant for Young Musicians. The Bright family of Chattanooga, Tennessee; Thomas J. Brown of Dalton, Georgia; and Barbara Martin Stephens of Madison, Tennessee made combined gifts of $29,000 in 2020 to create the fund that will benefit young people interested in learning to play bluegrass music and endow it for decades to come.

The Bright family is committed to supporting the endowment, and they welcome donations from others interested in helping young musicians achieve their bluegass education goals.

Fletcher Bright Memorial Grants up to $500 per applicant are awarded to help cover expenses of lessons, educational materials, instrument rental or purchase, workshops, and camps. Young bluegrass musicians at all levels may apply for assistance. Financial need will be considered, but is not required to receive a Bright grant. Applications for Bright grants may be made throughout the year.

The Bluegrass in the Schools Mini-Grants program, offered by the IBMA Foundation, supports K-12 educational initiatives by funding live bluegrass music performances in schools. Grants of up to $500 are available for programs that provide a comprehensive understanding of bluegrass music, including its history, instruments, and vocal harmonies. This initiative aims to enhance student engagement with bluegrass while preserving its cultural heritage, enriching the educational landscape through live demonstrations.

Our Story

The IBMA Foundation was created by the International Bluegrass Music Association in 2007 with a bequest from the Richard Barnhart estate. Mr. Barnhart was a musician from northern Virginia who loved bluegrass and wanted to support educational programs for children. Since the beginning, our goal has been to support bluegrass-music-related educational, literary, artistic and historic preservation activities.

In our early years we produced Discover Bluegrass, an educational video that has been used in thousands of classrooms and libraries around the world. We have hosted dozens of teacher workshops and artist trainings. We created a bluegrass lesson plan competition and provided a network for leaders of after-school bluegrass programs.

Our project grants, which now total $25,000 a year, support bluegrass-related initiatives throughout the world. We also fund Bluegrass in the Schools Mini-grants ($7,000/year) which help schools to hire bluegrass bands for school programs. The Rosenberg Bluegrass Scholar Award recognizes excellence in academic research. Six college scholarships are granted for students working in various areas of the bluegrass music industry. The Arnold Shultz Fund supports increased participation of people of color in bluegrass music with grants that total $30,000/ year. Fletcher Bright Memorial Grants for Young Musicians (age 18 and younger) help young people go to bluegrass music camps and workshops, take lessons, and purchase educational materials. 

Bill Breen Bluegrass Youth Education Fund

The Bill Breen Bluegrass Youth Education Fund was initially financed by friend and colleague, Susie Stephenson. The fund is an option for donors who want to help young people experience and learn to play bluegrass music. Instead of funding a specific scholarship or grant, the Breen Fund will be used by the IBMA Foundation where needed most, in a variety of ways that benefit individuals age 21 and younger. Based in Chicago, Illinois, Bill was an Associate Professor and Professor of Finance at the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University from 1971-2002, going on to serve as Chairman of the Finance Department and Head of Doctoral Studies for the Kellogg School. In addition to playing the banjo, Bill was an avid sailor and fly fisherman, and he never met a dog he didn’t like. His friends and family say it’s fitting that a man so passionate about the banjo, bluegrass music, and education is memorialize with a bluegrass youth education fund.

The Arnold Shultz Fund, established by the IBMA Foundation, aims to enhance diversity in bluegrass music by providing $30,000 annually in grants. This initiative supports individuals, schools, and organizations dedicated to inclusivity, particularly among underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. The fund honors Arnold Shultz, a pivotal African American musician who mentored Bill Monroe, and continues his legacy by funding educational opportunities for young musicians and promoting bluegrass music in diverse communities.

The ABC Law Centers: Disability Advocacy Scholarship, offered by ABC Law Centers, provides a $1,000 scholarship annually to students pursuing law or public policy careers focused on disability advocacy. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. higher education institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative aligns with the firm's mission to support families affected by birth injuries, ensuring that future advocates are equipped to address the legal needs of individuals with disabilities.

The ABC Law Centers: Birth Injury Lawyers Cerebral Palsy Scholarship awards $1,000 annually to a deserving student with cerebral palsy. This scholarship aims to raise awareness about cerebral palsy and celebrate the accomplishments of individuals affected by it. Applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. higher education institution and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The scholarship reflects ABC Law Centers' commitment to supporting those impacted by birth injuries and ensuring their futures are secure.

The Growing Tribal Economies Through Forest Market Innovations grant program, initiated by First Nations Development Institute, aims to empower Tribes and Alaska Native Villages to engage in emerging markets that enhance forest health and resilience. With funding of $200,000 to $500,000 per grant, this initiative supports projects focusing on sustainability, innovation, and traditional knowledge. Eligible applicants are encouraged to develop forest products, certifications, and practices that contribute positively to biodiversity and ecosystem management.

The FS Foundation Grant: Building for Better Belonging supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits with budgets under $5 million, aiming to enhance the lives of individuals with profound functional limitations. This funding opportunity encourages innovative projects that foster community engagement through access to adaptive resources, artistic creations, career training, and health initiatives. Grants of $50,000 to $100,000 are available to cover up to half of total project costs, ensuring collaboration with other funding sources to maximize impact.

Karma for Cara Microgrants empowers students aged 18 and under to bring their service project ideas to life with funding up to $1,000. Founded in honor of Cara Becker, who inspired community service during her own health journey, the program supports a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving local communities across the U.S. Students are encouraged to demonstrate creativity and community involvement, with grants awarded quarterly to fuel their impactful projects.

The Festus & Helen Stacy Foundation provides grants to non-profit organizations worldwide, especially those focusing on evangelism, leadership development, holistic ministries, and media outreach. Established in 1980, the foundation aims to support projects that address the needs of the marginalized and promote generous giving. Grants are typically awarded for specific initiatives in South Florida, nationally, and internationally, particularly in emerging nations. Organizations must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) to be eligible.